With snow comes plows: be aware and do your part

Whenever it snows, Eden Prairie plows clear 233 miles of city streets, as well as sidewalks and trails, according to the city.

On behalf of the drivers of those plows, the city is asking residents help with snow removal efforts by shoveling around hydrants and mailboxes and clearing the sidewalks in front of their homes. It is illegal to throw your snow on to the street.

When the forecast indicates a snow accumulation of two inches or more, the city will declare a Snow Event. As soon as snow accumulation reaches two inches, a Snow Emergency is in effect.

During a Snow Emergency, do not park on city streets until noon the next day.

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Streets maintenance crews work to maintain safe and passable roadways throughout a Snow Event, and perform a full curb-to-curb cleanup from 3 a.m. to noon, weather permitting. Snow Event declarations are posted at edenprairie.org/News and on Facebook. Subscribe to City News for email and text notifications.

Sidewalks

Residents are encouraged to wait to clear sidewalks on most streets until crews have cleared the roadway. Snow thrown from a plow can sometimes end up on the walkway if it is near the road.

The city encourages residents to clear sidewalks and pedestrian ramps to their full width.

Trails

Eden Prairie’s recreational trails are maintained throughout the winter months; however, trails are not treated with sand and salt. Wear appropriate footwear and remember that trail conditions are often inconsistent due to sun exposure, temperatures and usage.

Property damage

Snowplowing and ice control operations can cause property damage, even under the best of circumstances, according to the city. Mailboxes, landscaping and garbage containers in the city right-of-way — which extends approximately 10 to 15 feet beyond the curb — can be damaged.

The intent of the right of way is to provide room for snow storage, utilities and sidewalks. When there is a report of damage caused by snow removal equipment, the city cooperates with property owners to determine responsibility.

Damage to mailboxes

The city accepts responsibility for properly-installed, USPS-compliant mailboxes, if the damage is a result of being physically struck by a plow blade, wing or other piece of city equipment. Damage resulting from the force of thrown snow or an improperly installed mailbox is the responsibility of the resident.